Beijing
China

United Nations international conference on space-based technologies for disaster management : Risk assessment in the context of global climate change

Organizer(s) China National Committee for International Disaster Reduction United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs
Venue
Zhongmin Plaza
Date
-

Background

The aim of the conference is to offer a forum for disaster management communities and experts to strengthen their capabilities in using space based information to assess, monitor and respond to climate change related disaster risks and integrate space technology into long-term disaster risk reduction efforts. Increased storms and floods in the coasts of Asia and the Pacific, receding glaciers in the Himalayas, the Alps and the Andes, frequent and longer droughts in Africa, the European heat wave of 2003, frequent inland flooding in Central Europe and other regions of the world, and the harsh Atlantic hurricane seasons of 2004 and 2005 are few examples of weather extremes that enhance disaster risks. Several trends in weather extremes are sufficiently clear to highlight additional risks due to climate change and reiterate the need to deal with these risks not in isolation, but instead integrated into broader efforts to reduce the risk of natural disasters.

Major topics

Space technology role and challenges in the spirit of Rio+20 ‘The Future We Want’: The Rio+20 outcome document recognized the importance of early warning systems as part of effective disaster risk reduction at all levels in order to reduce economic and social damages, including the loss of human life, and in this regard encourage States to integrate such systems into their national disaster risk reduction strategies and plans. In this context, the conference promotes international cooperation in support of disaster risk reduction in developing countries by offering opportunities to plan technical assistance, technology transfer, capacity-building and training programmes.

Space technology for risk Assessment in the context of global climate change: The hydro-meteorological hazards induced by climate change include floods and droughts. Receding glaciers, that are essential for the sustainability of life, lead to a reduction of water resources and pose threats of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). Sea-level rise poses threats of coastal hazards and submergence to Small Development Islands (SIDS). The conference will focus on space technology applications in early warning, monitoring and assessing vulnerabilities of these hazards.

Information sharing and networking: Lastly, the conference will offer a wealth of information on data, data discovery and access, tools, best practices and opportunities for bilateral and multilateral cooperation through specific side meetings and breakout sessions.

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